Steve Jobs's wife falls ill at Maha Kumbh Mela

Apple co-founder Steve Jobs’ wife, Laurene Powell Jobs reportedly fell ill during her visit to the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 in Uttar Pradesh, India, as hundreds of thousands of Hindu devotees gathered at the event.

Indian media quoted a spiritual leader, who stated that Powell Jobs suffered from allergies due to the crowded and unfamiliar environment.

“She has never been to such a crowded place,” said Swami Kailashanand Giri, her tour guide.

He offered her his camp to rest, adding that she had come to the Kumbh Mela to experience Indian traditions. 

The largest gathering of Maha Kumbh Mela began on Monday, with hundreds of thousands of Hindus taking a dip in the Sangam as they believed they would clean their sins after bathing with that water. 

The 61-year-old philanthropist arrived in India on Sunday to attend Kumbh Mela. Earlier, she offered prayers at the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, where she was presented with Prasad and a garland.

According to reports, Laurene Powell will leave India on January 14 before the oath-taking ceremony of newly elected US President Donald Trump, set to be held on January 20.

The Indian government reported that at least 400 million people participated in this festival, which is considered one of the largest religious gatherings in the world.

In this regard, the Kumbh Mela, which is being held after 12 years, has been decorated on 4,000 hectares, which will continue until February 26 next month.